Maven District Salt Lake City

One of the best experiences I had in Salt Lake City was exploring the Maven District and meeting some of the fabulous strong women who own businesses there. The Maven District Salt lake City is made up of about 100 small businesses and 75-80% are women owned. It felt natural to gather like-minded women together and that is where this amazing concept was born.

They believe in collaboration over comparison. They support diversity, they support women, they support local.

I love that they attract empowered women. As they say, “Our Maven community is made up of doers, thinkers, risk takers, rule breakers, question askers, boundary pushers, explorers and bold humans who aren’t here to settle…”

We left as a group of women that were proud of ourselves as well as each other. Thank you for making such an impact on us. I can’t wait to return with my 2 teenage daughters. Let me show you around and introduce you to some of the business owners we met.

Let’s make some rings with

Erica @thelandofsalt

We broke up into small groups and I was in the group that got to spend a few hours with Erica, from The Land of Salt, creating our own custom stacking rings. We had a blast! Erica taught us how to measure, cut our material, and bend it.

Then came the fun part…soldering it! She gave us such confidence that we could do it and with her encouragement we all soldered our own rings.

She gave them a good cleaning and we were done.

(more…)

January 2, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup

One of my favorite things about the start of the new year is the promise of fresh beginnings, goals of self-improvement, and the chance to reimagine what your life can be. It’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of renewal and transformation by embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re seeking wellness, personal growth, or simply aiming to make 2024 your best year yet, our handpicked selection of books is designed to support and motivate you on your path to success. Cheers to a year of growth, positivity, and the pursuit of a better, brighter you! Enjoy our 2024 New Year’s Resolution Book Roundup!

The Adventure Challenge Family Edition

This is the perfect book for those who want to leave a legacy of memories with their tribe. This book will help you obliterate boredom, break out of ruts, discover new favorite traditions, and create those moments that you’ll tell stories about for years. With challenges ranging from baking an apple pie blindfolded to painting on a unique canvas, boring family board games are a thing of the past. Until you scratch it off, your adventure is a mystery! Once you’ve scratched off the challenge, you HAVE to do it. Each challenge has a time and budget guide to help you decide. Great for all families but is ideally created with kids ages 4-15 in mind and for families of around 4-8 members. Don’t forget to take pictures and journal about your experiences in the provided spaces. Once you’ve completed all the challenges, you’ll have a scrapbook full of wonderful memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Instagram

Facebook

The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition

Entertain your kids for hours with adventures they’ll remember forever. The Adventure Challenge Kids Edition is here to create memories that your kids will love. Whether they’re building a house made of snacks, making special gifts to give to friends or playing “Nature Bingo,” your kids will want to do these adventures over and over again! All activities require very little set up, supplies or parental supervision. With the included parent key, each adventure is a surprise for the kids but not for you. This book is packed with playful and creative scratch-off adventures your kids can do on their own or with friends and siblings. Ideal for ages 6-12. Don’t forget to take pictures and encourage your kids to write a few notes about their adventures in the provided spaces. Once they’ve completed all the challenges, they’ll have a scrapbook full of fun memories to look back on.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Buy it here!

Facebook

(more…)

November 24, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women

Time to celebrate the fabulous women in your life, and what better way to show your appreciation than with thoughtful gifts that bring warmth and joy? We’ve curated a collection of presents that cater to the diverse interests and tastes of all the women on your list. Whether you’re shopping for your mom, sister, wife, or a cherished friend, our guide is your go-to resource for finding the perfect gifts that will make this holiday season memorable. Enjoy our 2023 Holiday Gift Guide for Women!

ANAIRUI Lip Scrubs Exfoliator & Moisturizer-Lip Sleeping Mask & Sugar Lip Scrub

This lip care kit includes a butter lip sleeping mask and a sugar lip scrub. This healing and repair kit gently exfoliates lips and gives intensive lips repair. It’s great for dry, chapped lips and is a great overnight rescue kit for lips.

BODUM Pour Over Coffee Maker

Includes a reusable stainless steel mesh filter so you don’t need paper filters. Double-wall insulation keeps coffee hot for hours. Cork grip stays cool, allowing comfortable, barehanded transport even when carafe is filled with hot coffee.

MakeUp Eraser, 7-Day Set

Erase all makeup with just water! Including waterproof mascara, eyeliner, foundation, lipstick, and more. Reusable, machine washable, and eliminates waste.

Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket

This beautiful blanket comes in a variety of colors. I love the burnt orange. Woven into a luxurious chunky knit, 100% natural cotton yarn fibers support a neutral finish that complements farmhouse chic home décor. Extra soft, super thick & comfy, Their large 51 inch x 63 inch throw blanket is just the wrap you need to snuggle up. I love that this blanket is machine washable.

(more…)

November 15, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

We all deserve moments of rejuvenation and self-indulgence, and what better way to show yourself or a loved one some appreciation than through thoughtful self-care gifts? Whether you’re searching for ways to relax, destress, or simply pamper yourself, our self-care gift guide is here to help you discover a curated selection of products and ideas that will nurture the body, mind, and soul. Enjoy our 2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide!

Evolv

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Evolv delivers biology-driven, science-based, high-performance products using natural and organic ingredients—for transformative visible results in all hair types. Their products produce visible results you can see and feel. Every product in the line does multiple jobs, and is highly effective. Experience EVOLVh – and you too will describe your hair as revitalized, renewed, restored, youthful, vibrant, soft, and manageable.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

SmartColor Protecting Shampoo

This ultra-protective, anti-fade shampoo keeps color in and impurities out. Its breakthrough color-preserving formula gently cleanses, while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and other color treatments for hair that’s healthy, shiny, and vibrant. It’s a smart investment for your color—and your wallet.

SmartColor Protecting Conditioner

This innovative, color-preserving, and reparative formula deep conditions while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and treatments. Sublime hydration leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny—with vibrant color that lasts.

UltraShine Moisture Shampoo

Their weightless color-safe shampoo gently cleanses with sulfate-free, non-stripping ingredients—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands for visibly stronger, smoother hair, and amplified shine from root to tip.

Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner

Their bestselling conditioner transforms dull, drab tresses into hair that’s free of frizz and full of shine—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands to hydrate and detangle without weighing them down. Rinse out for a smooth, silky sheen you need to see to believe.

Ultimate Styling Lotion

A lightweight do-it-all styling lotion with medium hold. It smooths strands, defines curls into bouncy ringlets, eliminates frizz, boosts shine, and keeps it all together with buildable hold minus the crunch. All with heat & UV protection to boot.

SmartStart Leave-In Conditioner

A foundational step in your EVOLVh routine after shampooing and conditioning, this bestselling leave-in helps close the cuticle for brilliant shine and maximum smoothness. Plus, it nourishes and strengthens strands with plant-powered ingredients, while defending against damaging heat & UV rays.

Protect Your Color Discovery Kit

(more…)

November 13, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect present or just looking to treat yourself, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of delicious discoveries. From cozy coffee blends that’ll have you bouncing out of bed, to teas that will comfort you on chilly nights, to unique cocktails you can share with friends, we’ve got your cravings covered. Here is our 2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide. Cheers!

Mouth

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

If you’re looking for a gift basket, Mouth has so many options for you. Some boxes are all about pickles, wellness, snacks, charcuterie, and more. I love that you can shop for your basket by region, diet, or occasion. They also have a great subscription box service so you can keep giving month after month!. Everything at Mouth is made in small-batches by makers from across the U.S. They’re passionate about telling their inspiring stories, bringing their Mouthwatering products to you and helping their small businesses (and your appetite) grow.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Cozy Cocktail Kit

Upgrade your bar cart to capture the best flavors of fall and celebrate the changing of seasons. Our hand-picked selection brings warmth, spice, and everything nice to your standard supply of spirits. Transform that old fashioned with a dash of apple blossom bitters, enhance that Moscow mule with the tartness of pomegranate, and add festive flair to your mocktails with a little Cranberry 5 Spice. These mixers are a must-have addition to any festive feast you have planned. Bottoms up! The ideal gift for a hostess-with-the-mostess, a bar-cart connoisseur, and lovers of libations.

WHO DOESN’T LIKE A SPECIAL DEAL? ENJOY!

Take a peek at their website. When I wrote this, there was a deal: Get 15% off when you join their mailing list. (Offer not valid if it’s not currently on their website.)

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Kolkata Chai

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Kolkata Chai uses the same CTC Black Assam tea that’s used by chaiwallahs across India. Organically sourced from legacy tea estates, it brings that authentic, street-style chai flavor while being a better-for-you source of caffeine. Their kit comes with instructions and is easy to make in 5-7 minutes. Welcome to your new favorite drink!

They have the most amazing recipes on their blog. They have recipes for everything from desserts to oatmeal to iced drinks. Take a peek.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Signature Masala Chai Mix

Their Signature Masala Chai mix delivers a bold, delicious cup of tea. Each packet contains 100% Organic Assam tea with generous amounts of whole cardamom, cinnamon, and spices.

(more…)

November 10, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Skincare Holiday Gift Guide

While the holiday rush can sometimes be overwhelming, there’s no better way to show your appreciation and spread some holiday cheer than by gifting the gift of self-care. We’re excited to bring you a Holiday Gift Guide that will help you find the ideal presents for skincare enthusiasts on your list. From luxurious moisturizers to soothing face masks, we’ve curated a list of thoughtful and indulgent skincare products that will make this holiday season truly special. So, whether you’re shopping for your skincare-obsessed friend, a family member in need of some pampering, or even treating yourself, we’ve got you covered with the perfect skincare gifts to make this holiday season unforgettable. Enjoy our 2023 Skincare Holiday Gift Guide!

Blue Monarch

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Their products include only certifiably raw and natural ingredients, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals and never uses synthetic and other harmful ingredients. In line with their values, they have never and will never test their products on animals. Their line includes facial cleansers, moisturizers, body cleansers and body oils for men and women. The products are beautifully packaged and embossed with their signature blue monarch logo.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Gentle Facial Cleanser

This facial cleanser treats all skin types, especially dry and sensitive. It leaves skin smooth, nourished, refreshed, and clean. I love that it has a light scent and at how easy it is to wash it off.

Silk Sea Sponge

This beautiful sponge gently cleanses skin, helps produce luxurious lather, and is biodegradable and sustainable. It is sized perfectly to use for facial cleansing and is a great size for travel. It is top quality, soft, fine pored, highly absorbent, hypoallergenic & totally natural. Great for makeup application, removal, facial cleansing and use on babies. It is a re-usable alternative to cotton balls & face pads.

Monarch Kiss Lip Treatment

Monarch Kiss Lip Treatment is an ultra-nourishing lip treatment proven to nourish and boost moisture for 24 hours. Their lip treatment protects lips overnight, removes dry flakes, and improves dry lips. You will find it immediately smooths and supples lips which improve elasticity, retexturizes, and visibly improves the overall appearance of lips. New England winters are hard on lips and I know it will be my go-to for lip repair.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Website

Instagram

Twitter

Taspens Organics

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Taspens hand blends all of their own products in small batches to ensure freshness, consistency and perfection. Minimal processing & low heat infusions ensure superior quality. They provide pure plant-based nutrition for your skin and body!

Also, they believe it is all about plant-derived ingredients! Their products have always, and will always, contain nothing but 100% natural ingredients. There is nothing artificial, nothing synthetic, no GMO’s, just wholesome natural ingredients you can trust! They never test on animals. Taspen’s Organics is not just another skin care and wellness company. They are on a mission to make their customers healthier. They are committed to healthy skin, healthy body and healthy people.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Relaxing Bath Herbs

When herbs are placed in warm water they release their energies as well as their scents and color. Soak in this herbal bath to enjoy the relaxing and soothing benefits. Calendula Flowers*, Chamomile Flowers*, Comfrey Leaf*, Lavender Flowers* & Rose Petals* (*Organic)

(more…)

November 8, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Candle Holiday Gift Guide

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to infuse warmth and ambiance into your festivities than with the soft, flickering glow of candles. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere for a winter gathering, seeking the perfect present for a loved one, or simply want to add to your home decor, candles are a timeless and thoughtful choice. Here is our 2023 Candle Holiday Gift Guide. Enjoy!

Southern Charm Candle Co

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

The best part about candles is they have the power to transport you to a new place. Southern Charm captures the essence of the south, and you will soon feel like you’re sitting on a front porch sipping on sweet tea as the pecan pie cools on the windowsill. Not only so they smell incredible, but they are beautiful. They top each candle with a decorative wax that will make you feel bad burning it. Look how cute they are?

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Christmas Cookie

(Nothing says Christmas more than warm and buttery sugar cookies on the plate for Santa! Our festive Christmas Cookie Candle has notes of buttermilk, creamy vanilla, burnt sugar, and caramel.)

Gingerbread

(With warm notes of frosted icing, and ginger spice along with two gingerbread men peering through the top of the jar, this is sure to be a holiday favorite for any household! )

Tree Farm

(Their Tree Farm candle was created to evoke the fond memories of a day trip to the farm to select the perfect tree for Christmas. It has a rich evergreen scent, a snow white base, and is topped with a Christmas tree.)

Banana Pudding

(Banana Puddin’ is the wonderful, creamy aroma of a southern classic complete with a vanilla wafer on top!)

Pecan Praline

(Pecan Praline’s warm and tantalizing blend of butter, pecans, vanilla, and dark brown sugar was inspired by the confectionary shops on Market Street in Charleston, South Carolina.)

Front Porch Frappe

(Front Porch Frappe is a complex yet welcoming scent of a fresh brewed pot of coffee shared amongst friends.)

(more…)

July 3, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

52 Weeks of Self-Care: Weeks 13-16

52 Weeks of Self-Care Monthly Update

These next 3 weeks of self-care are about showers, baths, smudging, and salt caves!

Week 13

Turn Your Shower into a Spa Experience

Isn’t a shower just a daily necessity? Well, yes, but it can offer more than just cleanliness—it can be a transformative self-care ritual. Step into a shower and allow the warm water to instantly wash away physical and mental fatigue. With the right products, you can awaken your senses, providing a refreshing start to the day or a soothing wind-down in the evening. A shower can provide a moment of solitude and self-reflection, allowing us to pause, let go of distractions, and focus on the present. I’m always looking for new products that turn my everyday shower into a spa experience. So, embrace the therapeutic power of a shower, savoring each droplet of water as it revitalizes your senses, uplifts your spirit, and brings a renewed sense of well-being to your day.

Let me share some of my favorite products right now!

New England Apothecary Shower Steamers

These shower steamers create the perfect environment for a spa experience. Get the steamers a little wet and move them away from water and the scent will fill your shower.

Give New England Apothecary a follow:

Instagram

Facebook

Plaine Products Body Wash (16 oz)

Their Body Wash gently cleanses your skin while improving tone and texture. With aloe as the main ingredient, daily use will restore nutrients without drying. It smells incredible and immediately wakes you up in the morning!

Give Plaine Products a follow:

Instagram

Facebook

Majestic Pure Blueberry Body Scrub

Body Scrubs exfoliate skin to remove dead cells, toxins, dirt & pollution from pores; scrubbing also promotes blood flow to assist in rejuvenation of skin, leaving not only your skin revived but also renewing your whole mind, body, and spirit.

Philosophy Amazing Grace

A 3-in-1, multi-purpose, fragrant gel wash to gently cleanse body & hair. This product is great for travel because it has several functions.

Rose Geranium Felted Soap by Fiat Luxe

The combination of rose geranium oil and sweet orange oil uplifts your spirits. And, with the addition of ground rose petals it makes a great facial soap.

Week 14

Soak in a Bath

Immersing ourselves in warm water creates a sanctuary for relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care. A bath provides an escape from the busyness of our lives, allowing us to unwind and release tension. The warm water soothes tired muscles and eases joint stiffness, promoting physical relaxation and relieving stress. Adding natural ingredients like Epsom salts, essential oils, or herbs can enhance the therapeutic experience, offering benefits such as muscle relaxation, improved sleep quality, and nourished skin. Additionally, a bath provides a space for quiet reflection and self-introspection, allowing us to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with ourselves.

Take a peek at some for my favorite products.

Cuccio Somatology Yogahhh Milk Bath

This amazing milk bath contains Epsom Salt which is which is wonderful for relaxation and relieving pain.

Coconut Crush Effervescent Salt Soak by Salacia Salts

Bring home the beach with this single use effervescent salt soak. Cover yourself head to toe in bubbles scented of muddled citrus, fresh pineapple, and coconut blended with woodsy, sweet notes from the sandalwood tree.

Lemon Lavender Effervescent Salt Soak by Salacia Salts

Bring home the beach with this effervescent salt soak. Sink into the tub with Lemon Lavender scented mineral salts to relax, detox, and reap the benefits of the sea at home.

Give them a follow

Instagram

Facebook

Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Milk Bath Soak

Made from organic coconut milk, protein-rich coconut pulp and natural essential oils, this bath soak has luxurious softening and moisturizing properties helping to target dryness and dullness, and leaving the skin feeling silky-soft

Sweet Water Décor Spa Day Candle

The scent of sea salt, jasmine, and wood make a relaxing aroma that fills the room.

Bubble Bath Bomb Set

Their bath bombs contain Epsom salt, detoxifying clays & luxurious butters and oils. This is perfect for stress relief and relaxation.

Deep Steep Bubble Bath

Its natural essential oils of lavender and chamomile create a tranquil atmosphere. It’s the ultimate self care!

Week 15

Go to a Salt Cave

Salt caves, also known as halotherapy or salt therapy, have been used for centuries as natural sanctuaries for relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation. These tranquil environments are crafted with Himalayan salt rocks that create a serene ambiance and release negative ions into the air. It is believed to cleanse and detoxify the respiratory system, promoting clearer breathing and alleviating symptoms of allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. So, step into the serene embrace of a salt cave and embrace the therapeutic benefits it offers, allowing yourself to unwind, restore balance, and embrace a renewed sense of well-being.

Want to create a salt cave experience at home?

Plant Therapy Pink Himalayan Salt Inhaler with Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt

When you inhale through the mouthpiece, the passing moisture absorbs micron particles of the incredibly pure and mineral-laden Himalayan Pink Salt that filters through the entire respiratory system.

Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp

Himalayan Glow Pink Salt lamps are a popular choice due to their natural ionizing properties. Crystal Lamp releases negative ions into the air, which can help to purify the air by attaching to positively charged particles and neutralizing

Majestic Pure Himalayan Salt Body Scrub with Lychee Oil

This scrub is infused with Lychee Oil complex and Sweet Almond Oil is a self-care solution for the body and soul. It will help give your skin the ultimate detox and will promote its hydration levels.

Week 16

Sage your House

Saging, also known as smudging, involves burning dried sage leaves to cleanse and purify the energy within a space. This sacred practice has been used for centuries by different cultures around the world to rid homes of negative vibrations and create a peaceful environment. As the smoke from the burning sage wafts through the rooms, it is believed to clear away stagnant energy, ward off negativity, and invite in a renewed sense of balance and tranquility.

I love my new sage bundle that I bought in Portland, Maine.

Here are some other items that will help you learn the process of saging.

White Sage Smudge Candle

Cleanse your home of negative energy and invite all positive energy into your life.

White Sage Smudging Kit

Sustainably Grown Sage, Responsibly Collected Abalone & Smudging Feather + Hand Carved Wood Stand & Chakra Bracelet

Malicious Women Candle Co – Go Smudge Yourself

The citrus and sage smell incredible. It’s a hysterical candle that would make a great gift.

Click HERE to see what other kinds of self-care we will be doing this year!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, and this post contains affiliate links. It does not cost you anything extra. Using these links will help MyTravelingKids continue to help you create unforgettable family memories.

April 11, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

52 Weeks of Self-Care: Weeks 9-12

What a relaxing month of self-care. Spring is in the air and it’s the perfect time to start new habits of taking time each week to pamper yourself. Find some inspiration in our March Self-Care Roundup.

Week 9

Pamper Your Lips

Living in New England during winter can wreak havoc on your lips so this week let’s give them some love. A little bit of pampering and you’ll be puckering up again.

First step is to give them a good scrub. My favorite lip scrub right now is Kiss My Grits, praline lip scrub. Made by Salacia, this scrub instantly changes the feel of your lips. It smells incredible! It is made of Georgia stone ground white corn grits, organic sugar, organic coconut oil, pecan oil, Atlantic sea salt and vitamin E to make your lips more kissable. The scrubs come in a variety of fun flavors like Peach, Margarita, Mint Julep, Coconut Cream Pie, Praline, Blueberry, Key Lime Pie.

Give them a follow on Instagram and Facebook!

Next, follow up your lip pampering with a great lip balm. I have been alternating with these two amazing balms. The first is New England Apothecary Lip Conditioner. These silky lip balms bring the moisture right back into your lips with cocoa butter and coconut oil. They smell incredible and are perfect for every-day wear.

Give them a follow on Instagram and Facebook!

(more…)

March 4, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

52 Weeks of Self-Care: Weeks 5-8

February Self-Care Roundup

Week 5

Make Time for Stretching

Stretching can help improve flexibility, reduce tightness, reduce stress, and protect your muscles from those fierce workouts you’re doing. Whether you’re doing it before a cardio workout, after a HIIT workout, or right before bed, make some time in your week to add this step to your wellness routine.

For me, yoga is the best way to stretch, so I’ve been trying to take a class twice a week. I love to start and end my week with a class.